Explore American Culture & the U.S. Legal System at Temple University

Temple’s Pre LL.M. Academy: Legal Foundations is an engaging two-week curriculum tailored for law students outside the U.S. or recent non-U.S. graduates who seek a robust grounding in American legal education and culture. This academy is part of the American Culture at Temple (ACT) program and is offered in partnership with Temple’s Center for American Culture and Language and the Temple University Beasley School of Law. The program integrates American legal studies with cultural immersion, ensuring that students not only gain valuable insights into the American legal system but also develop a deeper understanding of life in the U.S., all while enjoying a fun and enriching experience.

Through interactive coursework, expert-led discussions, and field trips, students will explore the American legal system, learn how to apply to U.S. law schools and develop strategies for adapting to law school expectations in the U.S. Mornings will focus on classroom learning, while afternoons will feature cultural excursions and site visits to courts, legal institutions, and historical landmarks.

Pathway to Temple’s LL.M. for Foreign-Trained Lawyers

Students who successfully complete the program and pass the final exam will earn two academic credits toward the LL.M. degree at Temple University.

Program Dates

Key Program Activities

Visit the National Constitution Center & Federal Courthouse – gain insight into the U.S. legal system by exploring key judicial institutions, engaging with legal professionals, and understanding how the American judiciary functions.

Additional Possible Trips & Excursions

In addition to structured academic experiences, students will have the opportunity to explore some of the region’s most exciting destinations and activities including cultural, historical and artistic landmarks in Philadelphia.

• Eating in America’s Culinary Capital – Try Philly cheesesteaks, international cuisine, and world-class dining.
• Exploring cultural, historical and artistic landmarks in Philadelphia
• Visiting New York City – See Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and more.

Who Should Apply?

• Current law students or recent law graduates (ages 18-24).
• Those seeking a stronger academic foundation before starting their LL.M. studies.
• Law students interested in understanding U.S. legal education, culture, and LL.M. admissions.

English Language Requirements

Applicants must meet one of the following minimum English proficiency scores: 

• TOEFL iBT: 85
• IELTS: 6.0
• Duolingo English Test (DET): 110
• Video Interview: You can also schedule a video interview with a member of our team (tulaw_act@temple.edu)

Cost & Fees

Total Price for the American Culture at Temple  Legal Track

Program Cost: The pricing listed is based on a 2-week schedule. Please note that Pre LL.M. Academy and the ACT program costs differ due to the specialized coursework and resources tailored for legal studies.
The cost includes tuition, fees, housing, materials, ground transportation, regional trips, and activities. The fee does not include airfare, visa fees, personal expenses, or meals. A Meal Plan is available for an additional $300 for 25 meals in the campus dining hall

Application Deadline

Location: Philadelphia – A Historic Legal Hub

Temple University Beasley School of Law & The Center for American Language and Culture – Located in the heart of Philadelphia, a city rich in legal history and home to leading law firms, courts, and corporate headquarters.

How to Apply

Applications are now open!

To learn more, contact us at tulaw_act@temple.edu or visit American Culture at Temple.